James L. Bargar

PRO

James L. Bargar

4.9
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 19 years

Divorce and separation Lawyer at Conway, AR
Practice Areas: Divorce & Separation, Personal Injury, Family ... +2 more

243 US-64, P.O. Box 2380, Conway, AR

Virtual Consultation Available

About James

Biography

Tired of "thin-file" lawyers who try to "wing it" in court? The Bargar Law Firm will fight for you!

From before arrest to trial, we have the experience you need to tackle your criminal matter!

At the Bargar Law Firm, we have two decades of experience handling the toughest divorce/custody cases. No case is too tough or too complex.

From a simple car wreck to a catastrophic injury or medical injury case, we will fight for you!

Small town compassion, big-city results.

We fight to protect what matters most - your kids, your peace, and your future.

Practice Areas

5

Practice Areas

Divorce and Separation 60%

Family law, including uncontested as well as complex divorce, custody, guardianship, child support, adoption, paternity, and related proceedings.

20 years

60%
Personal Injury 20%

Select personal injury cases in the areas of auto and tractor trailer collision, products liability, and wrongful death.

20 years

20%
Family 10%

Family law, including uncontested as well as complex divorce, custody, guardianship, child support, adoption, paternity, and related proceedings.

10%
Car Accident 5%

5%
Criminal Defense 5%

Select criminal cases, both felony and misdemeanor, in both circuit and district state courts.

5%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Retainer

Sometimes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2023 2019 2018
...
+ 3

Licenses

Licensed in Arkansas for 19 years

State: Arkansas

Acquired: 2006

Active

No misconduct found

Location

The Bargar Law Firm, P.A.

243 US-64, P.O. Box 2380, Conway, AR, 72032

bargarlawfirm.com

Online Presence

Other places you can find James online.

James L. Bargar's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.9 /5.0

81 Client Reviews

Posted by Edward | February 20, 2026 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Client focused attorney in Central Arkansas

James is without a doubt the most effective divorce and custody attorney in Arkansas. I have had 3 and James outmatched my previous attorneys as well as the other party's attorneys. He doesn't just know law, he knows how court works, how the Judge and opposing council thinks, and he knows how to get ...the best outcome for your situation. His office does a great job at communicating throughout the process, and he listens as well as anyone I have ever met. He will tell you straight what you need to do better and where you are at - good or bad. I only wish I had hired him sooner.

Posted by Heather | July 7, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Recommend

Professional, kept communication up, always answered any questions, showed up when needed, and punctual. The whole staff has been wonderful during a very stressful time.

Posted by Lee | January 16, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Everything went, just as he said in our consultation

I've known James most of my life. We had many mutual friends in school, but we were not particularly close. However, I always knew he was an "intelligent, talented and stand up guy". One of the friends we shared, did create mutual respect and comfortability between us, I believe. Before this... incident, I had one prior legal experience with James in a situation, where he couldn't represent me because that case was in another state, but James assisted and helped me find solid representation in that area, which he did not have to do. I was very thankful. Not too long ago, I got in a jam and had to deal with it. I immediately reached out to James for representation. By the end of our consultation, I walked out of his office feeling like I had already won. James gave me the exact ,play by play, of how he felt my situation would pan out and he did not miss. The only, unforseen challenge, was a change in leadership at the Prosecutor's office. James told me as soon as it happened. He also communicated that it could possibly complicate things. However, he seemed unshook by it, so I wasn't terribly concerned. His team communicated great and I played my role by doing exactly what he told me to. James has a lot of experience in this area, is extremely knowledgeable, knows the legal system, knows the people in that system and has good relationships with those individuals. That's a great person to have representing you. I do not regret my decision to hire James. I do not regret what the cost associated with that representation was. My only regret, was the weak moment that led me to hiring him. But, I'm truly thankful he chose to be my lawyer.

Posted by Marcel | November 13, 2024 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Best attorney by far

Mr James Barger, there are no words to truly express how grateful I will forever be to you and your staff for representing me in my divorce. You were there at a time when I needed help navigating my way through very unpredictable circumstances. It was a dark time in my life. Your professionalism fa...r surpasses my expectations, I didn't realize that there were genuine people in the legal field but, with every new obstacle that I was faced with I knew that I had someone by my side filled with moral integrity that could not be ignored. You are a wealth of knowledge and I'm honored to have met you... and your son James Jr. I'm not really into politics but I can assure you, if you ever ran for office, you most definitely have my vote. Never believe that you can't get a fair shake just because of race color or creed. Mr. Bagar is color blind, all he sees is the truth. I will forever hold you in high regard. Thanks again for being you !

Posted by Tony | January 8, 2024 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Best in the Business

I highly recommend James Bargar to anyone who needs a divorce lawyer. He is very strategic, knowledgeable, and a good listener. He knows how to get things done and advises his clients in the best possible way. He handled my divorce case with professionalism and compassion and helped me achieve a favo...rable outcome. He is not only a great lawyer, but also a great person. Thank you, James, for everything you did for me!

See All Client Reviews

James L. Bargar's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse James
Victoria Leigh headshot
Victoria Leigh

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jun 19

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"James is reasonable and practical and a delight to work with as a fellow attorney bc he communicates timely and well."

Taylor D. Martin headshot
Taylor Martin

Family lawyer | May 13

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"As a former deputy prosecuting attorney, I worked on several cases against James. He was one of the most thorough and prepared attorneys I ever went up against. Professional, smart, and experienced. Also, he was always available and had fantastic communication skills. I would recommend any close family member or friend seeking a family law attorney to James Bargar."

Joe A. Denton headshot
Joe Denton

Unknown lawyer | Oct 16

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I have no hesitation in endorsing James. I know him both as a fellow lawyer and as oppsosing counsel on a matter. He is a passionate advocate who isn’t afraid to go to the mat for his clients ."

Tammy Brasuell Gattis headshot
Tammy Gattis

Divorce and separation lawyer | Nov 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Really nice guy, reasonable and easy to work with in Court."

Bonnie Lee Robertson headshot
Bonnie Robertson

Family lawyer | Apr 08

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Excellent instincts, good litigator."

Stefan Kane McBride headshot
Stefan McBride

Divorce and separation lawyer | Nov 14

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"My only hesitation in recommending James is that it makes it more likely that I might face him as opposing counsel. He's smart and does careful work."

John Greel Ralls Jr. headshot
John Ralls

Personal injury lawyer | Jul 29

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this talented and knowledgeable attorney, who is well-respected in the legal community."

Michael B. Phillips headshot
Michael Phillips

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jun 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James is a great attorney. His knowledge of Arkansas family law and his advocacy skills on behalf of his clients are unsurpassed."

Tommy Lee Bennett headshot
Tommy Bennett

Divorce and separation lawyer | Mar 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James is a fantastic lawyer. He is smart, aggressive, and honest to a fault. The only criticism that comes to mind is that he does not charge enough. Get him while you can still afford him."

Michael S. Waddington headshot
Michael Waddington

Family lawyer | Oct 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse James.He is a talented advocate with outstanding work ethic."

Timothy Osbern Isaac headshot
Timothy Isaac

Personal injury lawyer | Aug 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly endorse this lawyer's work. James Bargar is a knowledgable and skilled trial attorney who is dedicated to his clients, above all. I consider James to be a role model for me, and I know others do too."

Debra Joan Cheatham Reece headshot
Debra Reece

Family lawyer | Jun 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. James Bargar is an excellent family law attorney. I highly recommend him. He is the only family law attorney to whom I refer my friends and family."

Beau Wilcox headshot
Beau Wilcox

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jun 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James has long been one of my colleagues and I can honestly say that he is as well-prepared and well-versed as any attorney I know. He approaches the practice with enthusiasm and has great compassion for those clients who are in need of zealous representation."

Marvin Leibovich Jr. headshot
Marvin Leibovich

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jun 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James is one of the hardest working lawyers in town. His skill and reputation is beyond reproach. I have no hesitation calling on James when I have legal questions."

R. Allen Dodson headshot
R. Dodson

Family lawyer | Jun 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Talented trial attorney. Aggressive where appropriate. Very knowledgeable. Has good feel for a case and the strength or weakness of his client's position. I refer family law cases and personal injury cases to him regularly."

Quincy Walter McKinney headshot
Quincy McKinney

Child custody lawyer | Jun 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known James for a number of years now and have referred a number of clients to him and would not hesitate to in the future. When I send someone his way I know they are in good hands. James and I have worked as opposing counsel on a number of case. Everything from divorce and custody cases to personal injury litigation. Every time he has proved a worthy adversary. He is always prepared and works very hard for his clients. He is a zealous advocate with briliant drafting skills and in court experience! I would highly recommend James as an attorney."

Bradley Joseph Williams headshot
Bradley Williams

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jun 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James' encyclopedic knowledge of family law and dedication to achieving the best results for his client are unmatched. Anyone would be lucky for James to agree to represent them in their family law case, and I have recommended many potential clients to him over the years."

View All Endorsements
Victoria Leigh headshot
Victoria Leigh

Debt collection lawyer

Taylor D. Martin headshot
Taylor Martin

Criminal defense lawyer

Tammy Brasuell Gattis headshot
Tammy Gattis

Family lawyer

Bonnie Lee Robertson headshot
Bonnie Robertson

Family lawyer

Stefan Kane McBride headshot
Stefan McBride

Child custody lawyer

Michael B. Phillips headshot
Michael Phillips

Personal injury lawyer

Molly Elise Lucas headshot
Molly Lucas

Family lawyer

Christopher Gomlicker headshot
Christopher Gomlicker

Discrimination lawyer

Quincy Walter McKinney headshot
Quincy McKinney

Personal injury lawyer

Timothy Osbern Isaac headshot
Timothy Isaac

Personal injury lawyer

Marvin Leibovich Jr. headshot
Marvin Leibovich

Family lawyer

R. Allen Dodson headshot
R. Dodson

Oil and gas lawyer

Bradley Joseph Williams headshot
Bradley Williams

DUI and DWI lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2024

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2022

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2022

Top Rated Family Law Attorney, Mid-South Super Lawyers

2021

Excellence in Family and Divorce Law, Lawyers of Distinction

2020

Excellence in Family and Divorce Law, Lawyers of Distinction

2019

Excellence in Family and Divorce Law, Lawyers of Distinction

2018

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, The National Trial Lawyers

2018

Best Divorce Lawyer in Faulkner County, Log Cabin Democrat - BEST OF THE BEST

2017

Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyers, The National Trial Lawyers

2016

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2016

Client Satisfaction Award, American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys

2015

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2015

10 Best Client Satisfaction Award, American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys

2014

10 Best - Client Satisfaction Award, American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys

2014

Readers' Choice Awards - Personal Injury, Arkansas Life Magazine

2014

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2013

Top 100 Tial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2012

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2012

What Family Court Judges Want You to Know, NBI seminar

2011

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2005

Assistant Editor, UALR Law Review

2005

Associate Editor, UALR Law Review

Work Experience

2006 - Present

Owner, The Bargar Law Firm, P.A.

2004 - 2006

Law Clerk, Littlepage & Associates, PC/ Littlepage Booth

Associations

2014 - Present

Pulaski Co. Bar Association

2014 - Present

American Association for Justice

2008 - Present

Faulkner County Bar Association

member

2006 - Present

Arkansas Bar Association

2006 - Present

Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association

2006 - Present

Arkansas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Sample of Legal Cases

Order of Protection - Defense

prevailed - no permanent OP entered

Divorce - temp alimony

prevailed - judge awarded temp alimony

Divorce - final hearing

mixed - prevailed in preserving client's interests in property and having support set greater than child support chart; some issues reserved for later date.

Child Support Adjudication - Defense

prevailed - limited client's liability

Guardianship - permanent hearing - contested

prevailed - guardianship entered

Guardianship - permanent hearing

prevailed - client's rights preserved

Divorce - final hearing

mixed, but prevailed in having opposing case dismissed.

Divorce - final hearing

mixed - divorce entered, settled some issues, adjudicated other issues in client's favor; some issues reserved for later date.

Order of Protection - Defense

prevailed - no permanent OP entered

Custody - modification of visitation

prevailed - won on custody and contempt, other side forced to pay fees and costs

Divorce - final hearing

prevailed - client retained custody and ordered to receive support

Criminal - class C felony assault

reduced to class A misdemeanor - no jail

Guardianship - permanent hearing - contested

prevailed - guardianship entered for clients

Divorce - final hearing

prevailed - divorce granted

Criminal - class A misdemeanor assault

prevailed - charges nolle prossed

Divorce - final hearing

prevailed - case continued due to failure to comply with discovery

Child support adjudication

prevailed - CS ordered, and arrearage computed for non-payment

Linn v. Miller, 99 Ark. App. 407

Prevailed on appellate matter.

See More Legal Cases

Education

2005

University of Arkansas at Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

2000

UALR

M.Ed.

1996

UALR

BA - Bachelor of Arts

1990

Greenbrier High School

Speaking Engagements

2011

Media Law and Ethics

Issues in Media Law

2010

Univ. of Ark. Comm. College at Morrilton

Rhetoric and Writing

2009

Central Baptist College - Media Law Class

Issues in Media Law history

2008

AP Gov't class - Mills Univ. Studies H.S.

Current Issues in Constitutional Law

2007

AP Gov't class - Mills Univ. Studies H.S.

Current Issues in Constitutional Law

Publications

2009

self-published - compact disc "Stuff ya gotta know about filing for divorce and custody in Arkansas"

Languages

English

Activity

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